UN chief criticises Iran sanctions

UN – International sanctions on Iran are having “significant” effects on the Iranian people and appear to be harming humanitarian operations in the country, UN chief Ban Ki-moon said in a report to the UN General Assembly, released yesterday.

The Iranian currency has fallen during the past year and over the last 10 days alone has lost a third of its value, sparking street protests. US and other western officials blame the drop on both economic mismanagement and sanctions.

Mr Ban pointed to an increase in unemployment and a shortage of medical supplies. – (Reuters)